Scouting the Nation: Top 2024 NFL Draft Defensive Tackles and Safeties

Who are this week's players that have the spotlight shined on them for the NFL Draft?

In this edition of scouting the nation, we take a look at two safeties and two defensive tackles who are going to be near the top of their position groups for the 2023 draft. 

DT Gabe Hall, Baylor

NFL teams covet size and athleticism at defensive tackle. Hall has freakish size and athleticism allowing him to have unbelievable flash plays every game. There are a lot of similarities between Hall’s game and future Hall of Famer Chris Jones. Hall is also versatile and can line up all over the defensive line. There isn’t a clear-cut top defensive tackle in next year’s draft and Hall has all the tools to be that guy.

DS Tyler Nubin, Minnesota

Had he come out this year, Nubin would have been in contention to be the first safety drafted. He has NFL size, length and play strength. Nubin has excellent instincts and a knack for finding the football. He had seven interceptions in his last two seasons at Minnesota. Nubin’s route recognition and click and close speed also stood out on his film. He had success in both man and zone coverage and should have alignment versatility at the next level. There really aren't any hole in Nubin’s game and he projects as a day-one starter in the NFL.

DT Omari Thomas, Tennessee

All the talk this past season was about Tennessee’s high powered offense but they had an impressive defense anchored by Thomas. He looks the part but moves exceptionally well for a 320-pound defensive tackle. Thomas has a rare first step for a player of his size and is also very explosive. Thomas showed off a very good bull rush on film too. In the run game, Thomas takes up gaps and is hard to move off his spot. He uses his length, play strength and quickness to consistently shed blockers and tackle the ball carrier. With the increased importance of the nose tackle in the NFL, Thomas will be highly sought after early on in the draft. It’s hard to find a player as good against the run as Thomas, who can also generate pressure.

DS Billy Bowman, Oklahoma

Some players are just great football players, which is the case with Bowman. His feel for where to be on defense was excellent. Bowman plays with incredible foot speed and range, along with natural ball skills. He has the ability to be a single high safety at the next level, who can be also be a defensive chess piece. In man coverage, Bowman stayed in receiver's hip pockets, displaying the hip fluidity to change direction with ease. His instincts were also fantastic. Bowman is going to be a high draft pick and play for a long time in the league. What Bowman does is so highly coveted and he does it at an elite level.

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